Why Do I Need a Routine Dental Exam and Cleaning?
Twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings are essential components of preventive dentistry, designed to halt the development and progression of dental disease. Your trusted team at Revive Family Dentistry will monitor your oral health and address any concerns early on for the best possible outcomes. We are all about maintaining healthy smiles for a lifetime!
Why Are Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings Necessary?
Routine dental exams allow us to detect conditions such as cavities or periodontal (gum) disease early on when easiest to treat, avoiding the need for costly and involved procedures down the road. Dental cleanings are just as important. Studies show they significantly reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease, tooth decay, and bad breath (halitosis). Dental cleanings, coupled with proper oral health care practices at home, can halt the progression or even reverse gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Otherwise, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a serious condition that can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Your routine dental exams and cleaning not only safeguard your oral health but also impact your overall health. Studies show a link between periodontal disease and a host of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more. Moreover, many symptoms of systemic diseases, such as lupus or diabetes, are detected in the mouth first. If we find any signs indicating a health condition, we will refer you to your primary healthcare provider for further evaluation.
How Often Should You Schedule Your Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling your routine dental visits at intervals determined by a dentist. Most of our patients require dental exams and cleanings twice a year. However, those with periodontal disease or are at a higher risk for developing cavities will likely need more frequent care.
What Can You Expect During Your Visit?
Your dental exam will involve a thorough evaluation of every aspect of your oral health, including the health of your teeth, gums, and restorations. Digital x-rays will help us identify any current or potential concerns, including tooth decay, cavities, infections, and bone loss, to name a few. We will assess your need for tooth restoration or replacement, evaluate your bite, and conduct an oral cancer screening to rule out abnormalities.
During your appointment, our hygienist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup on and beneath your gum line. We will evaluate your oral hygiene practices and may demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques to keep your smile healthy between dental visits. Depending on your needs, we may recommend fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and keep tooth decay and cavities at bay.
After your dental exam and cleaning, we will discuss your unique oral health needs. We will create a fully customized treatment plan, including any needed preventive or restorative procedures to maintain your optimal oral health. We may also recommend cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening to enhance your smile.
Dental Exams and Cleanings Near Me
Contact Revive Family Dentistry in Grand Prairie, TX, to learn more about our preventive dentistry services for long-term healthy smiles. As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” We look forward to working alongside you to maintain your healthy smile for many years to come. Call us at (469) 340-4002 to schedule your dental exam and cleaning today!